Summary:
NYC Mayor Eric Adams is facing criticism for his decision to close a vital drop-in center for the homeless called Mainchance.
Despite a recent "very good" rating by the Department of Homeless Services, the city claims Mainchance is "underperforming" and plans to shut it down, citing cost savings.
The closure would leave only six such facilities in all of NYC, making it harder for the homeless to access essential services.
The city has rejected Mainchance's proposal to transform into an overnight shelter, claiming it would take years, but Mainchance's lawyers say it could be completed in 90 days.
The center's future is uncertain as they await a judge's ruling on a restraining order against the city.
The closure would have devastating consequences for those relying on Mainchance's services, such as Dorothy Simon, an 80-year-old wheelchair user, and Gary, a 74-year-old Vietnam War veteran who uses the pantry to collect food for his bed-bound neighbors.
The fight to keep Mainchance open is a fight for the most vulnerable in NYC and highlights the need for more affordable housing and accessible services for those experiencing homelessness.
NYC Mayor Adams Under Fire for Closing a Homeless Shelter
Amidst a rising homelessness crisis in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams is facing backlash for his decision to close Mainchance, a vital drop-in center in midtown Manhattan.
Mainchance, operated by the nonprofit network Grand Central Neighborhood Social Service Corporation (GCNSSC) since 1989, provides crucial services to the city's homeless population. It offers meals to over 300 people daily, along with showers, bus vouchers, banking services, medical care and referrals, and a safe space for those in need.
Despite a recent “very good” rating by the Department of Homeless Services, the city has labeled Mainchance “underperforming” and intends to close it, citing an estimated $3.7 million in savings over the next two years. This decision has sparked outrage from advocates, who argue that closing the shelter would severely impact the community.
A Shelter in Limbo
Mainchance has submitted a proposal to transform into an overnight shelter, providing beds and semi-private rooms, but the city has rejected this idea. While the city claims this conversion would take years, Mainchance's lawyers believe it could be completed within 90 days.
The center's future hangs in the balance as they wait for a judge's ruling on a restraining order filed against the city. If the shelter is closed, it would leave only six such facilities in all of New York City, making it harder for the city's homeless population to access essential services.
The Human Cost
The closure of Mainchance would have devastating consequences for those relying on the center's services. Dorothy Simon, an 80-year-old wheelchair user, depends on the food pantry to provide her with affordable groceries. Gary, a 74-year-old Vietnam War veteran, uses the pantry to collect food for himself and his bed-bound neighbors.
“This place gives me more than any other place,” Gary says. “You get meat, you get protein here. I get salmon in a can.”
A Fight for Justice
The fight to keep Mainchance open is a fight for the most vulnerable in our society. It highlights the need for more affordable housing and accessible services for those experiencing homelessness. As homelessness continues to rise in NYC, it is imperative that the city prioritize the needs of its most vulnerable citizens, not cost-cutting measures that leave them without critical resources and support.
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